When observed through a set of photometric filters, a distant star is seen to be brightest through the ultraviolet filter, less bright through the blue filter, and faintest through the yellow filter. What conclusion can be drawn from this information, assuming no absorption of light between the star and Earth?
A) The question gives insufficient information to draw a conclusion about a star's surface temperature.
B) The star has an intermediate temperature close to that of the Sun.
C) The star has a very high surface temperature.
D) The star has a very low surface temperature.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The brightness of a star in different filters can indicate its temperature due to Wien's Law, which states that hotter objects emit most of their radiation at shorter wavelengths. Since the star is brightest in the ultraviolet filter and less bright in filters for longer wavelengths (blue, then yellow), it suggests the star has a very high surface temperature.

When Observed Through a Set of Photometric Filters, a Distant